Stories from Thursday, December 26, 2024

FREE ACCESS Rodney and Tanja Kennedy went to bed at midnight Christmas Eve to be awakened minutes later to a burning home. They escaped their residence at 1411 Christy Lane in Pine Cone Estates with their two sons, but lost their home, family pet and possessions. A GoFundMe account has been set up for the family and has already raised approximately $17,000. It is helping the family as they deal with the loss of their home, vehicles and pet Muggzy...

The local community’s giving spirit in response to Rodney and Tanja Kennedy, who lost their home Christmas morning to a fire, is helping restore the family’s faith. A GoFundMe account set up for the family topped $16,000 by the morning of Dec. 26...

The National Conservation Systems Cotton and Rice, Southern Soybean and Corn, Delta States Irrigation, and the Southern Precision Ag Conferences will be held at the Hilton Convention Center in East Memphis on Jan. 27-28. “The conference is a gathering of the most knowledgeable researchers/specialists in the mid-states and midsouth-states, and highly productive farmers who produce cotton, rice, soybeans and corn,” John LaRose Jr., steering committee chairman, said in a press release. ...

The Poplar Bluff R-I school board has approved revisions to district policy to account for the imminent deployment of weapons detectors and cell phone restriction pouches in the next few months. Last month, the board approved the purchase of portable weapons detection systems that will be used initially at the high school, junior high and Mark Twain school. ...

Lee Frank Miller, Sr., 83, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, died Monday, Dec. 23, 2024 at his residence in Poplar Bluff. Mr. Miller was born Dec. 15, 1941 in Fisk, Missouri, son of the late George Emmett and Genevia Miller (Howell). Lee was a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating and camping. His favorite pastime was being with his family, and he loved the Lord Jesus with all his heart...

As we begin a new year, January reminds us of fresh starts and new opportunities. It’s a chance to move forward with hope and purpose. We are truly fortunate to live in a nation where progress is always possible. This January, we will welcome a new president who I believe will do a great job leading our country. ...

Dear Editor, The FBI plays a critical role in safeguarding our democracy, upholding the rule of law and maintaining national security. It is, therefore, imperative that its leadership reflects integrity, impartiality and a steadfast commitment to the principles of justice. Unfortunately, Kash Patel, whose name has been floated as a potential nominee to lead the FBI, lacks the qualifications and poses significant risks to the agency’s mission and credibility...

Officers conducted a traffic stop Thursday, Dec. 26, on Seifert Drive at Trousdale Street for improper registration. The driver was issued citations and the vehicle was impounded by Casey’s Towing. _ Sidney Jones, 49, of Poplar Bluff was arrested, Thursday, Dec. 26, on warrants and he was lodged in the Butler County Justice Center...